www.news.com.au
July 12, 2004
ONLINE betting exchanges were unlikely to boost problem gambling and did not need federal regulation, a government report has found.
Communications Minister Daryl Williams today announced the Government had decided against regulating betting exchanges, following a review of interactive gambling laws.
The overseas exchanges allow bets on a range of sporting events, with some also allowing the punter to play bookmaker.
Mr Williams said a report on the review, to be released soon, carefully examined the impact of betting exchanges.
"The report ... found no compelling evidence to suggest that betting exchanges were likely to contribute to an increase in the level of problem gambling," Mr Williams said in a statement.
The review noted the potential for enhanced consumer protection measures to be introduced in an online gambling environment.
"The Government's view is that this is best done through existing state and territory licensing arrangements.
"I call on the states and territories to recognise their responsibilities and investigate opportunities to strengthen their licensing regimes across all wagering services."
The racing industry has lobbied the Government for the past year to change the Interactive Gambling Act, saying betting exchanges would hit revenue and undermine the industry's integrity.
They argue British and Hong Kong racing have been damaged by internet betting and other forms of interactive gambling, which do not return revenue to the industry.
The exchanges have also been slammed by welfare and anti-gambling groups as targeting the vulnerable, including young people.
July 12, 2004
ONLINE betting exchanges were unlikely to boost problem gambling and did not need federal regulation, a government report has found.
Communications Minister Daryl Williams today announced the Government had decided against regulating betting exchanges, following a review of interactive gambling laws.
The overseas exchanges allow bets on a range of sporting events, with some also allowing the punter to play bookmaker.
Mr Williams said a report on the review, to be released soon, carefully examined the impact of betting exchanges.
"The report ... found no compelling evidence to suggest that betting exchanges were likely to contribute to an increase in the level of problem gambling," Mr Williams said in a statement.
The review noted the potential for enhanced consumer protection measures to be introduced in an online gambling environment.
"The Government's view is that this is best done through existing state and territory licensing arrangements.
"I call on the states and territories to recognise their responsibilities and investigate opportunities to strengthen their licensing regimes across all wagering services."
The racing industry has lobbied the Government for the past year to change the Interactive Gambling Act, saying betting exchanges would hit revenue and undermine the industry's integrity.
They argue British and Hong Kong racing have been damaged by internet betting and other forms of interactive gambling, which do not return revenue to the industry.
The exchanges have also been slammed by welfare and anti-gambling groups as targeting the vulnerable, including young people.
